I am a grandmother to 8 year old triplets who are doing well. This question is about my 4 year old great nephew who has been diagnosed with "autistic-like behaviors". I presume this means he is on the spectrum at the mild-moderate end. His usual personality is sweet, gentle, helpful, creative and outgoing at times. However, when he has any stimulation via TV or computer screen he becomes a different kid -- withdrawn, won't talk (except to demand to watch a show), low energy, not interested in doing anything. This can last for a few days and really disrupts their family life. We think that the visual stimulation via a screen is interfering somehow with his neurological system. Has anyone heard of this or had experience with this? Thanks for your help.

I tried to do a bit of a lit search for you but didn't come up with much...

http://www.springerlink.com/content/r6167w322h863j41/

I think electronic media can be useful in certain circumstances and in moderation - I think each child is different though. - I'd encourage you to try a medical library - is there a university in town with a medial school?

Good luck -

Janet
G - 12/07 35 weeks
GGG-04/10 30 weeks